To make certain The Shea Center program horses are in top condition for the safety and well-being of our riders, a pronounced effort is made to provide them excellent care.

The Barn

The horses spend part of their day in light, airy 12’ x 24’ open stalls that allow the horses to walk in a straight line, which is better for their health than walking in a circle as in a box stall. The open stalls provide an opportunity for the horses to reach each other across the stall rails and interact as in a herd atmosphere. A 3-layer foam and rubber product creates a soft sponge-like floor, which protects their joints when they stand. The barn has skylights and the open stalls provide light and good ventilation. In addition, we have added large, industrial fans that help circulate air silently. The stall automatic waterers are cleaned daily and the stalls are cleaned twice each day, which keeps flies to a minimum.

Exercise

Our horses are exercised daily. Each horse has a specialized schooling program depending on individual energy levels, physical needs, and limitations. They can have one or a combination of staff schooling, long lining, lunging, or work in hand exercises. In addition, they are turned out in the round pen or are put in the motorized Euro-walker for about 20 minutes, which reflects the same movement they would naturally have in a pasture setting. Every ten weeks the horses have a two-week vacation from lessons, although they return to their exercise schedule the second week.

Healthcare

The horses receive excellent healthcare, including orthopedic, chiropractic, and massage therapy, general healthcare, and dentistry. Each horse has its own properly fitted tack, which is conditioned daily and thoroughly cleaned during session breaks. The horses each have an individualized diet plan, which consists of an option from several types of hay, depending on the horse’s needs, and a lunch of alfalfa and Teff-blended hay cubes. In addition to three meals per day, the horses receive apple and carrot treats fed to them by some clients at the end of their lesson. All of The Shea Center horses receive lots of loving attention and grooming from the riders and volunteers.